Overview & Reviews

For more than 100 years now, Ford Motor Company has been selling mass-produced automobiles in the United States and around the globe. Known as one of the Big Three American manufacturers, Ford has attracted millions of loyal customers with a wide range of vehicles that offer considerable value. The automaker's trucks and SUVs have been especially popular. For decades, Ford's F-Series truck has been the best-selling vehicle in America.

The company was founded by Henry Ford in 1903. Ford dreamed of building a car for the masses, and that's precisely what he did, most notably with the immortal Model T of 1908-'27. The latter was bought by 16.5 million Americans during its 20-year lifespan and was affordable enough for Ford's own factory workers to purchase. Ford's early years were also distinguished by its introduction of the moving assembly line. It was the first to utilize this more cost-effective method of production, and its innovation became a mainstay of the manufacturing process.

Ford expanded into the luxury-car market with its purchase of Lincoln Motor Company in 1925. Over the next few years, the company broadened its focus even further by creating the Mercury division to produce mid-priced cars. By the late '30s, Ford had unveiled the stylish Lincoln Zephyr, introduced a low-priced V8 engine and built more than 25 million vehicles.

The 1950s saw the introduction of the legendary Thunderbird. Offering sleek styling and spirited performance wedded to available luxury features like power windows and a signal-seeking radio, the car was a huge hit. Another model of that decade, the Edsel, met with a somewhat less enthusiastic reception. In the wake of abysmal sales, the Edsel was discontinued just a few months into its third model year.

Ford regained its footing in the early 1960s with the introduction of the compact Falcon, a model that was warmly received by the public. By the middle of the decade the automaker had given enthusiasts something to cheer about with the launch of the sporty Mustang, a car that went on to become one of the biggest sellers of its day. Buyers adored the Mustang's low price, available powerful V8 engines and sporty styling. The Mustang even created a brand-new vehicle category: the pony car.

By the 1970s, Ford, like other domestic automakers, was starting to suffer the effects of changing consumer tastes and new government regulations. Many of its cars became shadows of their former selves. But the seeds of rebirth were planted in this decade. In 1979, the company acquired a stake in Mazda; this move would later aid Ford significantly in co-development projects. The company also emerged with a new mindset of global competitiveness.

By the mid-to-late '80s, Ford was showing new strength with its popular Escort and Taurus models while further expanding its empire with the purchase of the Aston Martin and Jaguar brands. Meanwhile, its full-size LTD sedan (later renamed the Crown Victoria) remained a staple of taxi companies and police forces throughout America.

Ford rode a wave of popularity in the 1990s, thanks in part to the huge success of its Explorer midsize SUV. The truck played a huge role in ushering in the era of the SUV. In 1999, Ford expanded its family yet again with the purchase of Volvo's car division, and, in 2000, it acquired Land Rover. For awhile, there was talk of Ford even taking General Motors' spot as the No. 1 automaker in the world.

But the new millennium initially saw a downturn for Ford. Increased competition, a continuing operating loss for Jaguar, legacy costs and a reliance on SUVs for profit took their toll. To compensate, the company sold Aston Martin, Jaguar, Land Rover and Volvo and introduced a wave of successful new products. Models like the F-150, Fusion, Fiesta, Focus, Flex and Mustang have allowed Ford to regain its health and standing as a very competitive manufacturer.

User Reviews:

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  It was old but good! - 1993 Ford Probe
  By GWilson - April 24 - 5:22 pm

  I only had it 6 months before the radiator caved. I decided just to get a new car rather than fix it as it isnt worth how much the fix would cost. It was much faster than I expected and much more comfortable as well. Gas mileage was on par with the rating (19 mpg mixed) but it excelled on the Highway at 28-29 mpg. Nothing weird broke on it so it was reliable and always started. Had to adjust the idle once but not a biggie. Also the drivers door panel fell to pieces after a couple months. And Premium fuel was annoying!

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  Liked the Freestyle - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By Lobo - April 24 - 2:29 pm

  We live in S. MD and bought the 05 Freestyle new while on a trip to WV happened to pass a dealer in VA and just stopped in for a look. Traded an 01 Explorer Sport, and have really enjoyed the Freestyle. The handling, comfort, and space were very good mileage averaged around 24 for 65k miles. CVT took a little getting used to, but really liked it in the mountains, and great in up to 10" of snow. No problems or repairs just traded it in for a 2010 Lincoln MKX, wifes an SUV girl at heart. Interesting note, local dealer thought our Freestyle was so nice, its in their showroom for sale, and they can only fit 3 vehicles in the showroom. Freestyles dont stay on the lot long around here.

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  Good Compact SUV - 2008 Ford Escape
  By G.Johnson - April 24 - 11:46 am

  My 3yr/60,000km lease is about to expire and Ive decided to share my thoughts. This SUV is my first FORD product and has met my expectations. The transmission cooler went at about 40,000km and was replaced and covered in the lease. Other than that, the 3.0lV6 and powertrain have been very good and the SUV has done flawlessly on many trips across Alberta and British Columbia.

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  Keeps on going - 2001 Ford F-150
  By nick - April 24 - 8:43 am

  I bought this truck used with 54000 miles on it. It has severed me well. It has 178000 on it now. The trany went at 101000. After 75000 you should keep a extra ignition coil in the garage, you will need it. The 4x4 is amazing, I have never been stuck anywhere,and I go off road alot. She hauls an amazing amount of weight. I was looking to replace her,but I will hold on until the last heart beat.Shes just that good.Change the oil every 3000 and trany 30000 and shell treat you right.5.4L rocks, I can get 18 mph if I drive normal. It usually gets 16 mph.

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  Great car except for the rear legroom - 2010 Ford Taurus
  By pomp - April 22 - 8:42 pm

  My criteria was a large sedan with a big trunk and AWD made in the USA. Previous car a 2007 Caddy Deville. I want minimum road feel. I was worried about the low sidewall tires(45). They are OK. Still potholes punch through but overall the ride is very quite, as good as the caddy. Trunk space is voluminous but the opening is small and the floor has a well which your golf clubs strattle.The drive train is smooth. never hear engine revs. LTD comes with paddle shifters which are completely useless. Never use them. maybe the SHO crowd thinks there cool. Rear seat legroom is ridiculous for this size car. Front seats have to be half way fwd to give min. legroom for the rear.

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  2006 F-150 disappointing - 2006 Ford F-150
  By Ken - April 22 - 10:27 am

  I have been Dedicated to Ford for 30 yrs however this truck is having to many issues. 3rd tailight leaking and you have to buy the complete light for $70.00 instead of just the seal and as per my parts mgr.the design of the seal has not changed and it is a recurrent problem for customers. I weigh 160 lbs and the drivers seat squeaks terribly. The drivers side seat motor has went out. The front Ford Oval emblem has been replaced twice due to water getting inside. The speaker in the drivers door works part of the time as there is an apparent wiring problem.

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  I waited six years for this. - 2007 Ford Mustang
  By Bonfire - April 21 - 10:02 pm

  Since the initial unveiling of the new body style for 2005, I have patiently yearned for a 2007 Mustang. My wait finally came to a glorious end last Friday, when I traded-in my 1997 V6 black coupe, and purchased a 2007 Grabber Orange GT convertible. To quote the 1975 Queen song title: "Im in love with my car." The Mustang GT is all I expected and more. First, since this car is my fifth Mustang, I have grown accustom to the traction-less rear end. Yet the GT feels solid and attached to the road. The car has a terrific low- end sound, yet quiet enough to hear the stereo, passengers, and yes, the familiar convertible "rattle". But Ill take a little "rattle" over a mini-van any day of the week!

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  Lemon Mustang - 2006 Ford Mustang
  By shibemw - April 19 - 3:31 am

  Nice styling car and fun to drive when it is not heading back to dealership for unending mystery electrical problems. I have had to many problems with this car to ever want another sports car again. Couple that with a dealership that wants to nickel and dime you on warranty work makes for bad Ford business. Not a practical car to own in the winter time in Colorado Springs.

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  Best Ford Ive ever owned (since 1955) - 2010 Ford Taurus
  By Mr.Bill - April 18 - 10:13 pm

  I took delivery on October 1st, I think it was one of the first in Houston. Saw the next one three weeks later. Its the best American car Ive owned, and so far (9,500) as good as my Acura RL, Infinity Q45, and BMW 5 series. It has to be one of the best values in America. Absolutely ZERO problems in 6 months and 9.000 miles. Only complaint is the BIG Ford emblems tattooed all over. Get some class like the Germans and Japanese and use small name badges. Tight body and suspension, plenty of power, Sync system is great. Climate control is fantastic. Huge trunk, plenty of room in interior, and dressed with great accessories. Fantastic car! And its America!

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  Good truck - 1999 Ford F-150
  By Ralph - April 18 - 6:47 am

  I looked high and low and found my 99 F150 lariat, extended cab, 3 door, 5.4 Triton. I love the design. My truck rund and drives great, Gas mileage not so good for a daily driver. I average 14 Mpg. Lots of power, and pickup. The only thing I have done is regular oil changes, and tire rotation. I did replace the front break pads. It was very easy. If youre looking for a good truck, Ford makes one.